Access to legal advice should not depend on where you live. Yet for people in rural communities, finding and accessing local legal services can present particular challenges.
That was an important theme at the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s recent Members Forum, held at Lough Erne Resort in County Fermanagh, where solicitors from across the region came together to discuss the future of the profession and the needs of the communities they serve.
The Forum explored a range of issues, including the adoption of artificial intelligence, the sustainability of small and rural legal practices, risk management and the mental health and wellbeing of legal professionals.
For Eoghan McKenna, Director of MSM Law and Junior Vice President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, the discussions reinforced the importance of listening directly to solicitors working in communities throughout the region.
“Access to justice, particularly in rural communities, is an essential priority for me. The Forum provided a valuable opportunity to hear directly from colleagues about the challenges they face and the needs of the people they represent. These conversations also support our work through the Local Solicitors Association Forum, helping us listen more closely to members and understand their priorities.”
Supporting Local Legal Services
Local solicitors play an important role in their communities, providing advice and representation when people face criminal proceedings, family difficulties, disputes and other significant legal challenges.
Ensuring that these services remain accessible requires an understanding of the pressures facing smaller practices, particularly those serving rural areas.
The Forum provided an opportunity for members to share their experiences and contribute to discussions about how the profession can respond to changing demands while continuing to serve the public effectively.
At MSM Law, we believe access to justice begins with people being able to obtain clear, independent legal advice when they need it, wherever they live.
Supporting the solicitors and practices that provide those services is an important part of protecting that principle.
No drama. Just clear legal advice.
Further reading
Law Society of Northern Ireland Hosts Members Forum in Fermanagh – Irish Legal News
Deputy Chief Executive Peter O’Brien, Head of Policy and Engagement Dr Patricia O’Lynn, President Mark Borland, Junior Vice President Eoghan McKenna
Photo Credit: Trevor Armstrong